This Message Center is organized and operated by David Vitale

Background:

Nearly 50 teachers completed a 4 day workshop in 2007 that focused on CGI Math.  The workshop generated a lot of discussion in each of our elementary schools about current and future mathematics instruction in our district.  Part of this discussion is centered on Everyday Mathematics as a curriculum that promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills in students while developing important foundational skills.

Everyday Mathematics emphasizes the application of mathematics to real world situations and supports the invented-procedures approach to algorithm development (one size does not fit all). Numbers, skills and mathematical concepts are not presented in isolation, but are linked to situations and contexts that are relevant to everyday lives. The curriculum also provides numerous suggestions for incorporating mathematics into daily classroom routines and other subject areas.  Having mentioned this, the curriculum does not dismiss traditional approaches, but embraces the reality that problems can be solved with various approaches. 

Students are also encouraged to explain and discuss their mathematical thinking in their own words. Opportunities to verbalize their thoughts and strategies give students the chance to clarify their thinking and gain insights from others.

These and other concepts of Everyday Math correlate closely with CGI and represent an exciting new direction for mathematics instruction in Watertown.  From 2007-08 to 2009-10, each elementary classroom has adopted Everyday Math as the district's elementary level math curriculum.  Everyday Math was added to the 6th grade curriculum in 2010-11. We'll monitor student progress with both standardized (SMI) and customized tools to help improve our students' comprehension of key mathematics concepts.

Beginning of year assessments are available for 2011-12 and have been delivered to each 1-6 teacher.  Contact Dave or Lynn with questions.    


 

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posted July 13, 2011 « back to Message Center home

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